Guillain-Barré Syndrome Outbreak in Pune: 73 Cases

Why in the news?

Pune reports a surge in Guillain-Barré Syndrome cases, prompting intervention by the Union Health Ministry and Maharashtra’s Rapid Response Team. The condition, affecting muscle control and causing paralysis, has raised health concerns.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome Outbreak in Pune: 73 Cases

Current Situation:

  • Pune has reported 73 cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS).
  • The Union Health Ministry has deployed a team to assess the situation, while the Maharashtra government formed a Rapid Response Team for investigation.
  • Of the affected individuals, 47 men and 26 women are confirmed cases, with 14 on ventilator support as of January 25, 2025.

About Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS):

  • GBS is a rare autoimmune neurological disorder where the immune system attacks peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness and potential paralysis.
  • It can affect people of any age, though it is more common among adult males.
  • Causes remain unclear but often follow viral or bacterial infections, particularly Campylobacter jejuni. Other triggers include the flu, cytomegalovirus, and the Zika virus.

Symptoms and Treatment:

  • Early symptoms include tingling sensations in the feet, legs, or hands, back pain, and difficulty with movement and facial control. Severe cases may cause breathing difficulties and affect the heart rate.
  • Treatment involves plasmapheresis (removing harmful antibodies) and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy (IVIG).
  • Rehabilitation through physical and occupational therapy may be required for recovery.
  • Although recovery can be lengthy, many patients achieve a nearly full recovery with timely intervention

The WHO considers GBS potentially life-threatening, highlighting the importance of early treatment and monitoring in critical cases.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times